Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound formed in the body during the digestion of indole-3-carbinol, which is found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. There is a scientific rationale for using DIM to support symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), primarily because of its effects on estrogen metabolism. DIM is thought to promote the production of “good” estrogen metabolites (such as 2-hydroxyestrone) over “bad” ones (such as 16α-hydroxyestrone), which may help balance estrogen activity in the body. Since PMS is associated with fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, the hypothesis is that DIM can help modulate these hormonal effects and reduce PMS symptoms.

However, direct clinical evidence for DIM’s effectiveness in treating or supporting PMS is limited. Most of the available evidence comes from basic research and small studies focused on estrogen metabolism, not specifically on PMS. While some small human studies have shown that DIM supplementation can alter estrogen metabolite ratios, there are no large, well-controlled clinical trials verifying its efficacy for PMS relief. Current recommendations are largely extrapolated from its hormone-modulating properties, and the use of DIM for PMS is considered plausible but not well substantiated by clinical research. As such, the evidence supporting its use for PMS rates as modest (2/5), with more research needed to confirm its benefits.

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